2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-8 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.6 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
